Columbia News

U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) has reintroduced the “Gateway Partnership Act,” a bill designed to facilitate cooperative agreements between the Gateway Arch National Park and its philanthropic partner, the Gateway Arch Park Foundation. The legislation aims to improve management and hosting of private events at the park, with the intention of generating broader economic benefits for St. Louis.

Senator Schmitt said, “The Gateway Arch National Park is a point of pride in St. Louis, and recent renovations have turned it into a prime location for events and celebrations in our city. The modern, versatile spaces on the park’s property will attract new economic opportunities and serve as an excellent setting for gatherings in St. Louis’ most iconic landmarks. My bill will streamline management of private events and marketing opportunities for the park to maximize the Arch’s potential as an economic asset and allow more people to enjoy the Gateway to the West.”

If enacted, the act would grant authority to the Secretary of the Interior—through the National Park Service—to enter into agreements with the Foundation for hosting private events at locations including the Arch Visitor Center and Old Courthouse. The agreement would require provisions to protect park resources, limit activities to those consistent with park values, ensure compatibility with National Park Service policy, and implement fees on event organizers to cover related costs.

Ryan McClure, Executive Director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation, stated: “We’ve proven that events at Gateway Arch National Park create positive impact for Downtown St. Louis and our entire region. This legislation will make hosting private events much easier going forward. Each gathering brings new visitors and economic activity to St. Louis, in an iconic setting that undeniably represents our city to the entire world. We are incredibly grateful to Sen. Schmitt for his support of this legislation and to Representatives Wesley Bell, Ann Wagner and Nikki Budzinski for their support in the House of Representatives.”

A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representative Wesley Bell (MO-01), with cosponsors Reps. Ann Wagner (MO-02) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13).

The Gateway Arch National Park is Missouri’s most visited landmark with over 2.56 million annual visitors. Since 2018's completion of CityArchRiver Project, nearly 30 private events have been managed by Gateway Arch Park Foundation; before COVID-19 disruptions there was an average of 15 such events per year with plans for 25 in 2020.

With renovations completed at both visitor center spaces and recently at Old Courthouse in May 2025, there is increased capacity for various social gatherings including weddings and corporate functions.

Under this proposed partnership framework, projections indicate up to $780,000 could be generated annually from private event revenue—all earmarked for reinvestment into park operations.